NEO VogelART Lab

The French Riviera has long been synonymous with artistic expression, boasting a plethora of galleries dotting its scenic coastline. But one gallery in Nice is redefining expectations and reshaping the way we experience art and culture.

In autumn 2022, VogelART Edition—a distinguished German publisher renowned for contemporary art editions—unveiled a pop-up exhibition at Le Dojo near the port of Nice. The event was an unqualified success, sparking two more extraordinary pop-ups in 2023. These triumphs planted the seed for something even more ambitious: the creation of a permanent cultural destination.

By the end of 2023, this vision took shape as NEO, a 300-square-meter industrial loft located in a former workshop near the port. The space’s name, “NEO,” is a nod to its neon-lit heritage and symbolizes a fresh beginning as a vibrant hub for contemporary art and culture. With its industrial chic design and expansive layout, NEO exudes the modern charm of a New York-style gallery while maintaining an inviting and inclusive atmosphere.

A Collaborative Vision

NEO is the brainchild of Sebastian and Simon Vogel, founders of VogelART, who bring their expertise in advertising, communication, and a profound passion for art, design, and culture. Established in Munich in 2016, VogelART has a storied history of fostering creative expression, and the Vogels themselves split their time between Munich and Nice.

Partnering with them is Luc Clément, a prominent figure in Nice’s cultural scene. As deputy editor of Marie Claire and Marie Claire Maison Sud, founder of the independent media company Sudnly, and co-founder of the art and society magazine Switch (on Paper), Clément’s creative expertise spans art, media, and communication. Since 2003, he has also helmed Le Dojo, a contemporary art space in Nice. Together, this dynamic trio has leveraged their collective networks and insights to make NEO a reality.

A Transformative Experience

Walking into NEO is like entering a new world. Each exhibit offers a distinct narrative, showcasing diverse artistic visions brought to life in this adaptable and inspiring space. The building, once home to neon sign and billboard craftsmen, retains its industrial soul, blending historical character with contemporary flair.

 

NEO’s mission transcends its role as a gallery. It aspires to enrich Nice’s cultural fabric by hosting a variety of events, from art exhibitions and installations to collaborative workshops and dialogues. These efforts create a platform where artists, designers, and audiences converge, fostering connections and pushing creative boundaries.

Visit NEO

Situated just steps from the bustling Port of Nice, NEO is a beacon for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or simply looking to immerse yourself in innovative art and design, NEO promises a transformative experience.

 

So, the next time you find yourself near the port of Nice, step into the dynamic world of NEO - art & culture lab x VogelART. Discover the fusion of history, creativity, and community that makes it a cornerstone of Nice’s cultural renaissance.

All photos courtesy of NEO VogelART Lab

Holiday Magic: Christmas Markets in the Côte d’Azur and Monaco

 

The Christmas markets in the Côte d'Azur bring a festive charm to the Mediterranean coast, blending Provençal traditions with holiday cheer.

From Saint Tropez to Menton, these markets sparkle with illuminated chalets offering handcrafted gifts, gourmet treats, and regional specialties like socca and nougat. At some locations, visitors can enjoy ice-skating rinks, live music, and Santa's grottos against the backdrop of the glittering sea.

Each market, whether nestled in historic town squares or along palm-lined promenades, exudes a unique blend of coastal elegance and holiday magic, making it a delightful destination for the season.

Saint Tropez

Location: Place des Lices

Dates: December 7, 2024 to January 5, 2025

A variety of seaside chalets at the port showcase gifts, food, and unique services, accompanied by visits from Santa and dazzling fireworks.

Cannes

Location: Allées de la Liberté and Cours Félix Faure

Dates: November 30, 2024 to January 5, 2025

Cannes blends glamour with festive cheer through its charming chalets offering gifts, gourmet treats, and free entertainment, including concerts and children's shows. Highlights like the ice rink, Santa’s chalet, and the Grand Parade—complete with light fairies and elves—add a magical touch to the holiday season.

Antibes

Location: Esplanade des Pêcheurs and Pinède Gould

Dates: November 30, 2024 to January 5, 2025

Set against the backdrop of the sea, Antibes features a traditional market with wooden chalets, an educational farm, and an ice rink. Adding a cultural flair to the celebrations, a musical show inspired by The Mysterious Cities of Gold will be performed at the Anthéa Theater on December 14.

Mougins

Location: City center

Dates: December 1, 2024 and January 5, 2025

Calling all food lovers! Mougins celebrates the holiday season with a focus on gastronomy, featuring a Christmas log competition and a festive market (December 13-15) showcasing creations from local artisans and producers. An ice rink, live concerts, and Santa’s house ensure fun for all ages.

Nice

Location: Jardin Albert 1er and Place Masséna

Dates: November 28, 2024 to January 1, 2025

The Nice Christmas Market, one of the largest in the region, features 60 chalets offering artisanal products, festive decorations, and culinary delights like churros and socca. A dedicated dining area invites visitors to savor mulled wine or pancakes while enjoying the enchanting holiday lights. Children's activities and a Ferris wheel further enhance the festive experience.

Monaco

Location: Port Hercule

Dates: December 6, 2024 to January 7, 2025

Monaco transforms its port into an elegant Christmas village overlooking the sea. Wooden chalets feature high-end goods, handcrafted jewelry, and international culinary delights. The port's ice rink serves as a centerpiece, joined by a Ferris wheel and children’s games. Festive illuminations across the Principality add to the event's enchanting splendor.

Menton

Location: Mail du Bastion

Dates: December 7, 2024 to January 5, 2025

The Menton Christmas Market features 35 charming chalets, along with an ice rink, amusement rides, festive entertainment, and Santa visits throughout the holiday season.


Other, smaller locations in the region also contribute to the holiday spirit so no matter where you visit you are sure to experience Christmas French Riviera style.

Increased Train Service to Launch for the Côte d’Azur and Monaco

 

Consider it a Christmas bonus. As mentioned back in September 2024, expanded train services are about to begin in the region starting on December 15th 2024.

 

Much to the relief of locals and undoubtedly tourists, many of whom have faced frustration and stress while trying to catch a train during peak hours—especially during the crowded summer months, when train cars are often packed to capacity.

Starting December 15th, TER trains on the Nice-Ventimiglia line will operate every 15 minutes between 6 AM and 10 PM. This enhancement, highlighted by the PACA Region in a recent interview, stems largely from the introduction of competition in the TER network. It is further supported by SNCF's reliability commitments to the regional authorities, promising even greater improvements.

 

With the introduction of competition in the TER network, the South Region and SNCF Voyageurs Sud Azur are advancing efforts to enhance and modernize regional transportation. Starting December 15, travelers along the Riviera will enjoy modern, comfortable trains running every 15 minutes between 6 AM and 10 PM on the Les Arcs–St Raphaël–Cannes–Antibes–Nice, Grasse–Cannes, and Nice–Ventimiglia lines.

The schedule changes introduced on December 15 do not require new trains. However, to accommodate the ongoing rise in passenger demand on this route, additional trains will be deployed to boost capacity.

 

Since spring 2024, the Region has been renting additional trains to meet demand. By the end of 2027, these rented trains will be replaced by two new high-capacity train sets. Discussions regarding their financing are underway with the Principality of Monaco, which recently announced the purchase of two new TER trains scheduled for delivery by late 2027.

These new trains will enhance the ability to manage the high influx of passengers during peak hours. They will enable the use of reinforced trains, including multiple unit operations, where several connected trains are controlled by a single driver.

 

In August 2024, the TER cancellation rate in the Riviera rail sector dropped significantly to 5.2%, compared to 9.3% in 2023. The South Region, as the organizing authority, has demanded stronger measures from SNCF to further improve service reliability. For 2025, SNCF has pledged to reduce cancellations to 0.25% and achieve 98.5% punctuality. Stricter penalties will be enforced for failing to meet these targets.

 

 

The Christmas Season Begins in Monaco

Over the weekend the Christmas season began in the Principality of Monaco.

On November 30, Prince Albert II, Princess Charlene, and their children, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, marked the beginning of the holiday season by attending the season’s first light show at the Place du Casino. The event was also graced by Stéphane Valeri, President of the Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), Didier Guillaume, Minister of State, and several other prominent Monegasque figures.

“At precisely 6:36 p.m. on Saturday evening, the magic began on the Place du Casino, with a cascading illumination of the historic heart of Monaco, under the eyes of the Princely Family, guests of the SBM and passers-by,” states a recent press release by the SBM.

 

This holiday season, Monte-Carlo's end-of-year celebrations are centered around the enchanting theme of "Magical Christmas Moments." The theme will be featured across all SBM establishments until January 5, 2025.

An 18-meter-high fir tree glittered with thousands of lights, setting the stage for a mesmerizing sound and light show projected onto the façade of the Monte-Carlo Casino. Attention then shifted to five giant Christmas baubles, each adorned with decorations representing magical Christmas moments such as Advent, tree trimming, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

The Princely Family and Monegasque officials explored the enchanting installations before the evening concluded with a second dazzling light show, accompanied by musical reinterpretations of beloved Christmas classics.

The Magical Christmas Moments sound and light show is open to the public until January 5, 2025. From December 6 to 20, the show will run on Fridays and Saturdays, every hour from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and from December 21 onward, it will take place every evening. A special New Year’s Eve countdown with music is planned for December 31. Additional festivities, including Christmas pop-ups and festive dining menus, are also part of SBM’s holiday offerings.

Photos credit: Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer

World AIDS Day 2024 with Fight AIDS Monaco

Yesterday, a large gathering of community members came together to support H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie's charity, Fight AIDS Monaco, now marking its 20th anniversary. The occasion featured the unveiling of memorial quilts created by charity members to honor those who lost their lives to AIDS, in observance of World AIDS Day.

The event, held at the Oceanographic Museum, welcomed the presence of Princess Stéphanie, her daughter Camille Gottlieb, and Monegasque dignitaries as Fight AIDS Monaco unveiled its memorial quilts for the 13th consecutive year.

 

Both poignant and heartfelt, the quilts serve as a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of AIDS. On Friday, the association presented 8 of its 14 meticulously crafted pieces, each requiring an average of 170 hours to complete.

The quilts, considered symbols of hope, draw inspiration from the AIDS Memorial Quilt movement, which began in San Francisco in 1985. This initiative honors those who have lost their lives to AIDS by creating panels of painted fabric. Christophe Glasser, Director of Fight AIDS Monaco, highlighted this connection in his speech.

 

Fight AIDS Monaco is a non-profit NGO founded by H.S.H. Princess Stephanie in July 2004.

Faced with psychological, and financial distress along with isolation. S.A.S. Princess Stephanie has seen people living with HIV, in the face of discrimination that many suffer daily, and in the face of their acute, often hidden, internalized health and well-being. With that, Princess Stephanie has committed herself to and with them in this struggle for life and dignity.

As the honorable Princess Stephanie has stated, “I join all those who are fighting HIV in their own lives, I encourage everyone to be screened, to protect themselves, and to thank anyone who devotes their time, their money to the mobilization of AIDS.”

From previous experiences, this event is reflective in memory of those who have passed due to HIV/AIDS complications, yet also filled with compassion and love as a supportive community along with the strength and hope that we must do all we can to bring more awareness and raise funds with the hope to eradicate this disease that can affect anyone. And this year, World AIDS Day felt no different.

The Fight AIDS Monaco non-profit organization works with board members, a small but important team of employees, and many volunteers, all of whom share their time, along with Princess Stephanie to help put the word out about AIDS awareness, and prevention and to raise funds for the charity through various events in and around Monaco annually.

Fight AIDS Monaco is funded by a grant from the Government of Monaco but mainly from private donations. To donate, please contact: Fight AIDS Monaco

Photo/Video Credits:

Frédéric Nebinger
Frédéric Pacorel
Monaco Tribune

Monaco’s Innovative Six-Hectare Waterfront District Set for December 4th Inauguration

 

Mareterra, Monaco's most ambitious land reclamation project, will be inaugurated on December 4, 2024, by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene. This €2 billion eco-district, complete with luxury residences, a marina, and public green spaces, will welcome the public starting December 5.

The eagerly awaited Mareterra district, a breathtaking six-hectare extension of Monaco’s coastline, will be officially inaugurated on December 4 by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene. This monumental €2 billion project, launched in 2013, stands as a remarkable achievement in engineering and urban design, delivered six months ahead of schedule.

With the removal of construction barriers near the Louis II Tunnel and the Fairmont Hotel, residents and visitors have been drawn to Mareterra's striking features.

Highlights include the 16-berth marina and the iconic Renzo building, designed by famed architect Renzo Piano. While these visible landmarks are impressive, much of the district's transformation happened behind the scenes. Over 3,500 workers dedicated their efforts to completing this remarkable project, poised to become a crown jewel in Monaco's urban landscape.

Starting December 5, the Mareterra district will be open to the public, offering a 500-meter coastal promenade for leisurely strolls and lush green spaces featuring 1,000 mature trees. The district also boasts 12 shops and restaurants, an extension of the Grimaldi Forum, and 160 parking spaces, ensuring a welcoming and accessible experience for all visitors.

A First for HIV Testing in France

 

Taking an AIDS screening test in a pharmacy is now possible in the Cote d’Azur.

Six pharmacies in the French region bordering Monaco have been chosen to take part in a pilot national program offering rapid and anonymous HIV screening tests. These tests are free of charge and deliver results quickly for those seeking them.

Located in Menton, Cap d’Ail, and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, these six pharmacies are the first in France to provide this confidential and fast HIV testing service.

Launched by the French government in October, the initiative serves as a pilot program expected to pave the way for a future nationwide implementation.

“The project will initially be deployed on an experimental basis in certain areas of the Alpes-Maritimes, before a potential extension to other territories, less equipped with medical resources, depending on the results,” says a representative for Objectif Sida Zéro, a Nice-based association that supports people in the region living with HIV and AIDS. “This new lever for action will bring the region even closer to the ambitious objective of ending the transmission of HIV.”

The tests are available anonymously to anyone, require no prescription, and are provided free of charge.

Monaco Grand Prix Confirmed Through 2031

 

Formula 1 has officially extended its agreement with the Monaco Grand Prix, securing the iconic race on the F1 calendar through 2031. This new deal builds on the previous contract set to expire in 2025, adding six more years to Monaco's celebrated presence in the sport.

The Monaco Grand Prix, a cornerstone of the F1 World Championship since its debut in 1950, has been a permanent fixture on the calendar since 1955.

Next year, the event will mark its 75th anniversary from May 23-25, before transitioning to a new permanent date in the first weekend of June starting in 2026.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, shared his excitement about the contract renewal, stating, "I am thrilled that Formula One will continue to race in Monaco until 2031. The streets of Monaco are unique and an integral part of Formula One. This Grand Prix is a race that every driver dreams of competing in."

The future of the Monaco Grand Prix had been uncertain due to challenges surrounding the event's sustainability. These included the crowded race calendar, which features 24 races this year, as well as financial concerns. Monaco's distinctive urban setting limits audience capacity, and the city’s financial contribution to hosting the race is relatively modest, although it does attract an international audience well before and after the Grand Prix  with events surrounding the race happening both day and night.

Celebrating Monaco's National Day

 

Monaco’s iconic red and white colors are more prominent than ever as the Principality prepares for its National Day celebrations. This year, the festive decorations extend to new locations, spreading patriotic pride across the Principality.

 

The streets are being transformed for the annual event on November 19th. Spearheaded by the Events Division of the Municipal Technical Services, dedicated teams have been working since November 4th to adorn the city with pavilions, banners, and Monegasque flags. The effort ensures that Monaco’s national colors shine brightly in every corner of the Principality.

Each year, the Mairie expands its efforts to bring the celebrations to all districts. In 2024, this includes an impressive display of approximately 600 pennants, 550 flags, and 90 pavilions across 150 installations. This large-scale operation requires both day and night crews: day teams handle flag installations, while night crews manage the more complex setups.

Traditionally, Monaco’s National Day aligns with the feast day of the reigning Prince's namesake saint. However, Prince Albert II chose to honor his late father, Prince Rainier III, by keeping the celebration on November 19th, marking a meaningful tribute to his legacy.

While the main Monaco National Day celebrations take place on November 19, some exciting events have been planned for a day earlier. Here’s what’s planned so you can make the most of the festivities: 

Monday, November 18 

          20:00 - Drone Light Show over Port of Monaco. Watch as 800 drones illuminate the night sky from a secure, sound-buffered viewing area along Albert I quay. 

          21:00 - Nicoletta & Gospel Choir Concert. Enjoy the powerful voice of Nicoletta accompanied by her gospel choir in an uplifting concert, open to audiences aged 10 and above. 

Tuesday, November 19

           09:00 - National Day at Condamine Market. The Marché de la Condamine comes alive with tastings of local specialties and a vibrant atmosphere. Festivities continue into the evening, with live musical entertainment starting at 19:30. 

           11:40 - Military Parade at Place du Palais. Don’t miss the impressive military parade, a National Day highlight worth attending. 

           12:00 - Giant Fish Display at Place d’Armes. Marvel at the spectacular fish display and indulge in delicious food—no reservations required. 

           18:00 - Liane Foly Concert at Espace Léo Ferré. Wrap up the celebrations with a captivating performance by the renowned Liane Foly, as she sings her greatest hits in an unforgettable evening.  

 

Monaco National Day is a time for everyone to come together and celebrate the Principality with joy and pride.

A Triumph for the 10th Club Vivanova Luxury Lifestyle Charity Gala

 

Last Saturday, the 10th Club Vivanova Luxury Lifestyle Charity Gala Dinner was held at the Fairmont Monte Carlo, raising €35,000 plus private donations for Fight Aids Monaco and Ecoute Cancer Réconfort.

 

This year's event was marked by the presence and patronage of H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, who attended to support her charities and her daughter Pauline Ducruet, who hosted a fashion show with her ALTER Design team, benefiting the gala’s charities.

Club Vivanova welcomed over 250 guests to the Grand Salon of the Fairmont Monte Carlo, partnering with the International University of Monaco, whose students also attended. The black-tie evening began with a Champagne cocktail, followed by a four-course gourmet dinner, a charity auction hosted by Bradley Mitton, and a performance by the Alexandra Miller Quintet. A midnight after-party with Champagne and dancing concluded the night.

 

Celebrating a decade of success, the gala has now raised over €400,000 for charity, combining dynamic networking with support for meaningful causes.

Images courtesy of Club Vivanova and Philip Andrukhovich Photography